While completing the MAc program you can choose to train in a specialized field of study and receive a certificate upon completion of any of the following programs. Specialty certificate programs are offered based on faculty availability and student interest. Certificates are available in:
Five Element
- Dr. Gary Dolowich, M.D., L.Ac., Department Co-Chair
- Mary Huse, R.N., L.Ac., Department Co-Chair
The Law of Five Elements was formulated by the ancient Chinese as a way to understand the movement of life’s energies in nature. The specialized field of Five Element integrates classical Chinese medicine philosophical theory with modern psychology.
Taught by highly knowledgeable and experienced faculty, the Five Element certificate program includes both theoretical courses and clinical training. You will learn to diagnose and treat Qi according to the Five Element model, addressing a deeper level of human experience. Upon completion of Five Element Theory I & II, Five Element Point Location, 2 units of Five Element electives, and all Five Element clinical courses you will be awarded the Five Element certificate.
Course Title Code Units Hours [Five Element Certificate Program] Five Element Theory I MEL 315 2 32 Five Element Theory II MEL 420 2 32 Five Element Spirit of the Points I-III MEL 431-433 2 32 Five Element Deepening Into the Officials MEL 440 2 32 Five Element Point Location MEL 445 1 16 Five Element Archetypal Acupuncture MEL 450 2 32 Five Element Clinical Rounds MCL 300 1.5 48 Five Element Clinical Internship Rounds MCL 400 1.5 48 Five Element Clinical Internship MCL 600 1.5 48 Five Element Theory I
MEL 3152 Units 32 HoursThis course is an introduction to the fundamentals of the Five Elements. You will explore a map of energy, particularly well suited for treating emotional and spiritual levels, and will begin to develop the skill to read energetic imbalances through color, sound, odor, and emotion. The concepts in this course expand the range of conditions successfully treated by TCM practitioners.
Prerequisite:
MCT 200, TCM Diagnostics; MAC 220/MAC 230, Meridians and Acupuncture Points I/ LabFive Element Theory II
MEL 4202 Units 32 HoursThis course builds on the materials presented in Five Element Theory I, providing an opportunity to delve deeper into the elements and their Officials. You will gain a profound understanding of Five Element energetics and how to utilize this knowledge in the treatment room. Case studies will be presented throughout the course to enrich your understanding of this system of acupuncture.
Prerequisite:
MEL 315, Five Element Theory IFive Element Spirit of the Points I-III
MEL 431-4332 Units 32 HoursAcupuncture points each have a name, a history, and a particular meaning and energy. This course examines the name of the point, its location, its relationship to the elements and to the corresponding Official. This course is divided into three sections and includes discussion, meditation, art and poetry. Section I, MEL 431: Addresses the points of Wood and Fire Meridians Section II, MEL 432: Addresses the points of Earth, Metal and Water Meridians Section III, MEL 433: Addresses the points of the Window of Sky, Governor and Conception Vessels.
Prerequisite:
MEL 315, Five Element Theory IFive Element Deepening Into the Officials
MEL 4402 Units 32 HoursThis course presents the energetics of each of the Officials from the Five Element perspective. You will learn the many ways the Officials present themselves when out of balance, and how these imbalances are expressed in patients’ physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual lives. The methodology of choosing points to address the Official most in need of support will be discussed. You will learn how an imbalance of the Officials within yourself, and as a practitioner, affects your understanding and treatment of patients.
Prerequisite:
MEL 420, Five Element Theory IIFive Element Point Location
MEL 4451 Units 16 HoursThis course deepens your understanding of the Five Element treatment strategies learned in Theory I and II. You will learn to improve Five Element point location accuracy, and further develop your knowledge of Five Element point functions and indications.
Prerequisite:
MEL 315, Five Element Theory IFive Element Archetypal Acupuncture
MEL 4502 Units 32 HoursThis course explores the similarities that exist between modern Jungian psychology and Chinese medicine and how Jungian psychology archetypes are viewed within the Five Element model. You will learn to recognize archetypal emotional imbalance patterns in your patients and influence these energies through acupuncture points. The emphasis of the course will be on personal growth; with rituals, slides, Qigong exercises, stories, and spiritual poetry used to create a “sacred space” for this exploration.
Prerequisite:
MEL 420, Five Element Theory IIFive Element Clinical Rounds
MCL 3001.5 Units 48 HoursIn this clinical training course, you will observe senior practitioners in clinic as they apply Five Element theory, energetics, and point selection to a broad spectrum of patients, gaining an understanding of the principles of Five Element Acupuncture as applied in a clinical setting.
Prerequisite:
MEL 315, Five Element Theory IFive Element Clinical Internship Rounds
MCL 4001.5 Units 48 HoursIn Clinical Internship Rounds, you will diagnose and treat patients in a clinical setting under the direct supervision of a senior practitioner. You will learn to treat patients with a variety of conditions using Five Element theory, energetics, and point selection.
Prerequisite:
MCL 300, Five Element Clinical Rounds; MEL 420, Five Element Theory II (or concurrent enrollment)Five Element Clinical Internship
MCL 6001.5 Units 48 HoursIn this final stage of clinical training, you will be assigned your own patients and conduct intake, diagnosis and treatment under the direct supervision of a clinical supervisor.
Prerequisite:
96 hours of MCL 400, Five Element Clinical Internship Rounds
Medical Qigong
- Francesca Ferrari, L.Ac., Department Co-Chair
- Jean Vlamynck, L.Ac., Department Co-Chair
Based on the textbook, Chinese Medical Qigong Therapy: A Comprehensive Clinical Text, this program teaches the basic theories and practical applications of Medical Qigong.
Medical Qigong was developed to treat patients with a multitude of conditions, including internal organ diseases, immune system dysfunction, and cancer. Patients are treated with Qigong and given specific Medical Qigong prescription exercises and meditations in order to complement their treatments and enhance healing. A 200 hour Medical Qigong Practitioner certificate will be awarded upon completion of Medical Qigong1–IV (128 academic hours) in addition to 72 hours of clinical training.
Course Title Code Units Hours [Medical Qigong Practitioner Certificate Program] Medical Qigong I MEL 310 2 32 Medical Qigong II MEL 320 2 32 Medical Qigong III MEL 330 2 32 Medical Qigong IV MEL 340 2 32 Medical Qigong Clinical Internship Rounds MCL 400 1.5 48 Medical Qigong I
MEL 3102 Units 32 HoursIn Medical Qigong I, you are led through a progressive series of Qigong (Vital Energy Skills) meditations and exercises. You will learn basic applications of Medical Qigong (purging excess conditions, tonifying deficiencies, dispersing stagnations and regulating Qi, blood and body fluid), and how and when to apply them in clinic. You will be introduced to energetic psychology, discharging toxic emotions, and will learn how to handle the emotional discharges and toxic energetic releases coming from your patients.
Prerequisite:
MCT 100, TCM Foundations; MAC 110, Meridian Theory or concurrent enrollmentMedical Qigong II
MEL 3202 Units 32 HoursIn Medical Qigong II, you are led through a progressive series of advanced Shengong (Spirit Skill) meditations and exercises, specifically used for developing advanced intuitive diagnostic skills. You will learn how to establish proper energetic boundaries, and neutralize psycho/emotional interactions such as projection, transference, and counter-transference. Upon completion of this course, you will be prepared to participate in the Medical Qigong clinical training and assist the instructor with performing treatment protocols.
Prerequisite:
MEL 310, Medical Qigong I; MEL 320, Medical Qigong II; CNT, Clean Needle Technique; CFA, CPR/First AidMedical Qigong III
MEL 3302 Units 32 HoursIn Medical Qigong III, you will be provided with an overview of the esoteric principles and foundational structures that govern Traditional Chinese Medical Qigong. Course content includes: the study of the Three Outer Forces and their influence on the human body, energy, food and diet, the body’s energetic internal structures, Advanced Shengong Cultivation Methods, the Eight Supernatural Powers, how to rectify Qi deviations, among other topics.
Prerequisite:
MEL 320, Medical Qigong IIMedical Qigong IV
MEL 3402 Units 32 HoursIn Medical Qigong IV, you are introduced to advanced Medical Qigong theories and their clinical application. Upon completion of this course, you will be ready to practice on your own, utilizing Medical Qigong treatment protocols in combination with other TCM modalities, empowering your patients to use modified Qigong prescriptions to suit their personal needs.
Prerequisite:
MEL 330, Medical Qigong IIIMedical Qigong Clinical Internship Rounds
MCL 4001.5 Units 48 HoursConducted in a small class setting, Clinical Internship Rounds provides you with exposure and first-hand experience with Medical Qigong diagnosis and treatment. In this hands-on clinical training course you will learn and experience the different aspects of energetic dysfunction and symptom manifestation. Through the careful guidance of the instructor, you will assist in all phases of diagnosis and treatment.
Prerequisite:
MEL 310, Medical Qigong I; MEL 320, Medical Qigong II; CNT, Clean Needle Technique; CFA, CPR/First Aid
Sports Medicine
Orthopedic acupuncture is used by athletes to alleviate joint pain, heal muscle strains and sprains, and prevent injury. The benefits of stress reduction and increased energy provided by orthopedic acupuncture helps athletes achieve top performance and alleviate tension prior to competition.
The Sports Medicine certificate program is designed for students interested in assisting patients to increase stamina and flexibility, reduce stress, and obtain peak athletic performance. The program emphasizes the treatment of orthopedic injuries: shin splints, tennis elbow, knee injuries, low back pain, sprained ankles, and other impairments.
Course Title Code Units Hours [Sports Medicine Certificate Program] TCM Traumatology and Orthopedics MCM 410 3 48 Advanced TCM Trauma and Orthopedics MEL 700 2 32 Sports Medicine Clinical Rounds MCL 300 1.5 48 Sports Medicine Clinical Internship MCL 600 1.5 48 TCM Traumatology and Orthopedics
MCM 4103 Units 48 HoursThis course covers the etiology, diagnosis and treatment of common diseases of the musculo-skeletal system in accordance with both TCM and Western medicine. Emphasis is placed on the differentiation of bone and soft tissue injuries related to common sports and industrial injuries. You will learn to treat patients with acupuncture and herbs, perform essential orthopedic tests to evaluate the outcome of treatments, recognize red flags in orthopedics, and make appropriate referrals. You will learn how to competently instruct patients in the proper rehabilitation and the prevention of sports and industrial injuries.
Prerequisite:
Completion of 3rd semesterAdvanced TCM Trauma and Orthopedics
MEL 7002 Units 32 HoursThis course covers the etiology, pathogenesis, differential diagnosis and treatment for traumatic injuries of the skin, tendons, ligaments, and muscles from an integrative approach. You will learn how to review X-rays, perform specific orthopedic tests for common musculoskeletal injuries, and make proper referrals when necessary. Herbal formulas for poultices, plasters and compresses will be taught in addition to acupuncture treatment modalities.
Prerequisite:
MRA 700, Cumulative Review IIISports Medicine Clinical Rounds
MCL 3001.5 Units 48 HoursIn this specialized clinical training course, you will observe senior practitioners in clinic as they apply acupuncture, Chinese medicinal herbs, and Tuina massage to a broad spectrum of patients with sports injury-related conditions.
Prerequisite:
MRA 300, Cumulative Review I; Passing the specialized round examinationSports Medicine Clinical Internship
MCL 6001.5 Units 48 HoursIn this final stage of clinical training, you will gain the skills to diagnose and treat patients, applying classical and specialized acupuncture and herbal formula treatment plans for a variety of sports injuries, utilizing Western medical examination and diagnostic techniques when appropriate.
Prerequisite:
MCL 300, Sports Medicine Clinical Rounds; MCM 410, TCM Trauma & Orthopedics; MWM 520 Western Physical Examination/Lab
Tuina Massage
TCM Tuina massage practitioners work with the energy channels and points of the body using the same principles as acupuncture except that hands and fingers are used rather than needles. Tuina massage releases stagnant energy flow and tension in the body, enhances the healing process, and aides in the recovery of damaged tissues.
Utilizing a variety of hand techniques, Tuina massage is usually practiced on a clothed body.
A highly effective holistic approach, Tuina provides physical and mental relaxation and a deep sense of well-being. This treatment modality is highly beneficial for young children and patients that have concerns about the use of acupuncture needles.
The TCM Tuina Massage certificate program consists of 176 hours of both theoretical and clinical training. This program is open to students who are not enrolled in the MTCM program, provided they meet the general education enrollment requirements and have taken the prerequisites.
Course Title Code Units Hours [TCM Tuina Massage Practitioner Certificate Program] TCM Tuina Massage I MAC 350 3 48 TCM Tuina Massage II MEL 400 2 32 TCM Tuina Massage Clinical Internship Rounds MCL 400 1.5 48 TCM Tuina Massage Clinical Internship MCL 600 1.5 48 TCM Tuina Massage I
MAC 3503 Units 48 HoursMassage and manipulation, or Tuina, comprise one of the traditional five branches of TCM. Although the TCM program emphasizes the clinical methods of acupuncture and herbology, this course introduces you to Tuina and other traditional Chinese therapeutic massage systems. Emphasis is on using specific clinical evaluations to formulate therapeutic massage treatments, which may become a part of your clinical practice.
Prerequisite:
MCT 100, TCM Foundations; MWM 103, Human Anatomy; MAC 110, Channel TheoryTCM Tuina Massage II
MEL 4002 Units 32 HoursThis course expands on the foundation of TCM Tuina Massage I, focusing on clinical assessment and treatment protocols for a variety of common musculoskeletal and internal medicine disorders. You will learn how to use Tuina as an independent treatment modality, offering TCM massage to those whom acupuncture is either undesirable or inappropriate.
Prerequisite:
MAC 350, TCM Tuina Massage ITCM Tuina Massage Clinical Internship Rounds
MCL 4001.5 Units 48 HoursIn this specialized clinical training course, you will practice a broad spectrum of applications of Tuina massage with patients in a clinical setting under the direct supervision of a senior practitioner.
Prerequisite:
MAC 350, TCM Tuina Massage ITCM Tuina Massage Clinical Internship
MCL 6001.5 Units 48 HoursA continuation of the theoretical and practical aspects of Tuina massage, this clinical training course provides you with the opportunity to work with your own patients, practicing what you have learned in class and observed in clinic, under the direct supervision of a senior practitioner.
Prerequisite:
MCL 400, TCM Tuina Massage Clinical Internship Rounds
Asian Massage and Bodywork Certificate
Our Asian Massage and Bodywork (AMB) certificate program provides three levels of massage certification, with training in Chinese, Japanese and Thai styles of massage. By fulfilling MTCM program requirements, students automatically complete 173 hours of the Level I, 250 Hour Massage Practitioner Certificate. With the completion of an additional 77 hours you can obtain a massage license prior to the completion of your Masters degree.
The Level I, 250 Hour Massage Practitioner Certificate, qualifies you to apply for the California State Certified Massage Practitioner (CMP) license through the California Massage Therapy Council (CAMTC), allowing you to practice massage anywhere in California.
If you are interested in receiving advanced massage training to become a Level II Asian Bodywork Therapist or Level III Asian Bodywork Clinician you can continue your training through the Five Branches Extension department. For more information about our massage training programs go to: Extension programs-Massage Certification.
